Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The most enlightening experience of my life. Past Review

By (English with a Creative Writing Emphasis, Western Washington University) - abroad from 09/12/2012 to 12/15/2012 with

Arcadia: London - Queen Mary University of London

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was definitely worthwhile. It gave me a goal for what I want to do with my life, boosted my confidence, and broadened my global experience.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The English courses I took in the UK were very similar to what I took at home, but friends in science courses found it a little harder to adjust.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

I mainly made my own food because my flat had a kitchen, however the food made by the school was typical cafeteria food.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Only being there for three months made me rush to do all the tourist things I wanted to do, so as a result I didn't feel totally immersed.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

London is a very expensive city. The exchange rate doesn't favor American students.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $30
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Choose one night to go out to eat a week, and always ask about student discounts.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The immersion
  • Communication
* What could be improved?
  • Overall costs
  • Organization of group trips/events
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I had compared it more with other programs to see where I could have cut costs.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!